Ask a Cooperative Education Advisor: How to Have a Successful Co-op Interview

Cooperative Education Advisor Trish Auletta wrote the following article answering frequently asked questions about the Drexel Co-op program:

A few weeks after Drexel University students submit their co-op interview requests, they can view which employers have granted them an interview. This is both an exciting and anticipatory time for students as they prepare to “wow” their prospective employers during the interviewing period. Although interviews can be intimidating, there are various tips to bolster confidence and preparation for a successful outcome.

Below are 10 frequently asked questions that can help demystify the process for curious students: 

1. Where do I view my granted interviews online?

Students can access their interviews granted by logging into their DrexelOne account, navigating to the Co-op & Career Services tab, and clicking interview requests.

2. How are interviews scheduled between employers and students?

There are two ways scheduling occurs: the student will contact the employer, or the employer will contact the student. This depends on the interview instructions for each job posting. If students need to reach out to the employer, there will be specific contact information provided, usually calling or emailing, per the employer’s request. If the instructions read “employers will contact students,” it is important for you to check your email daily and ensure a voicemail is set up for your phone in case employers need to leave a message.

3. What type of interview could I have?

Interviews come in a variety of formats, including in person, phone or video conferencing such as Zoom or on Microsoft Teams. Additionally, there are different types of interviews, such as 1:1, group interviews in which a student sits with two or more employers on a panel, or performance-based interviews. Technical or performance interviews might require students to demonstrate their skills and problem-solving abilities. The Steinbright Career Development Center offers a plethora of workshops that can be viewed here as a resource to students.

4. I have an interview scheduled for co-op. Now what? 

Once your interview is scheduled, you will need to understand if it is a virtual or in-person appointment. For phone or video interviews, students should check their internet connection and seek a quiet space to conduct the conversation. In-person interviews require students to travel to the job site. Arriving early and dressing appropriately are key. You might consider a “trial run” before the interview to make sure you know how long it takes to commute to the site.  

5. How do I best prepare for an interview? 

Preparing yourself ahead of the interview will help you feel confident and ready before interviewing takes place. Researching the company’s website is beneficial and can offer insight into their philosophy, values and work culture. Utilizing your personal co-op advisor is invaluable, as they can help students prepare, conduct mock interviews and give tailored advice based on a specific major or industry. Another resource is Big Interview. This software offers video tutorials and practice software in which you can record answers to typical interview questions and send them to trusted individuals (i.e., family members, friends, advisors) to request feedback. 

6. What should I wear during an interview?

You should dress wearing business casual attire. A pair of dress pants, a work-appropriate blouse, or suit and tie would show prospective employees’ professionalism. If you do not yet own business casual clothing, the Steinbright Career Closet has events throughout the year, offering shopping opportunities for students to acquire one work outfit, totally free.

7. What if I don’t know how to answer a question?

It is perfectly okay to inform the employer that you are nervous, would like a question repeated or need a moment to collect your thoughts. If a student prepares ahead of time by responding to Steinbright’s “Sample Interview Questions” or “Coping with Interview Stress” resources, they often can answer a question by taking an extra few seconds to think. If you find yourself in a position where you just don’t know an answer, it is okay to be honest and admit that you are unsure of how to answer that specific question before asking to go to the next one.

8. Are there questions I should ask the employer?

Yes. It is a good idea to prepare a short list of inquiries for the employer. Sometimes, asking what the position looks like on a daily basis or what the company values most are great ways to learn more about the opportunity.

9. How do I know if I made a positive impression on the employer?

It can be hard to know for sure if you were totally successful during an interview. It is perfectly okay for students who do not have much interviewing experience to ask for feedback at the end of the interview, through a follow-up email, or in consultation with their co-op advisor. Through more interviews and with more time, students will gain more confidence, skills, and experience in interviewing.

10. After an interview is over, then what?

Take a deep breath and give yourself some credit! Then, as a best practice, send a thank-you note to employers after the interview. It demonstrates both courtesy and offers an opportunity to reinforce your interest and skill set for the position. Ask your co-op advisor for guidance if you have specific questions, or check out Steinbright’s guide to follow up thank you letters. Take notes on your interview, writing down questions you were asked that you are likely to hear again. Use this ever-expanding set of interview questions as part of your preparation for subsequent interviews.

To get a head start in preparing for your interviews, ask your co-op advisor or navigate to the Steinbright Career Development Center’s “Interviewing” guide.